Some of our laws still entertain corruption

SINCE Papua New Guinea gained Independence 46 years ago, a number of our laws seem to have been promoting corrupt practices.
One particular law is that the referral of leaders by the Ombudsman Commission to the Public Prosecutor to write to the chief justice to appoint a three-persons tribunal to be headed by a national court judge to look into the allegation of that leader.
This practice is corrupt.
This law should change to read: “A leader is automatically suspended from holding any public office and active duties immediately after the receipt of the referral from the Ombudsman Commission to the Public Prosecutor”.
Why are we continuing to entertain corrupt leaders being in office and using their political powers to influence investigations?
They should be suspended but remain on the payroll until they prove their innocence in court.
What concerns me is these leaders continue to hold onto public offices with full parliamentary perks and privileges until a tribunal is announced and charges are read in court.
According to many Papua New Guineans, especially the rural populations, once a leader is referred by the Ombudsman Commission under the leadership tribunal, the leader loses his/her dignity and respect.
I suggest Prime Minister James Marape, the Ombudsman Commission, the Public Prosecutor’s Office and Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika look into this matter and advice relevant authorities to make the necessary changes.
Papua New Guinea cannot continue to talk about fighting and getting rid of corruption while at the same time promoting corrupt practices.

Samson C Napo,
Former Bulolo MP